the Ghosts of the Past . The whispered rustling of the strings and the rhythmic playfulness in the woodwinds evoke a hushed , fantastical scene . The Romanza is the emotional heart of the Symphony and draws the most directly from Pilgrim ’ s Progress . In the manuscript score , Williams inscribed a quote from Bunyan ’ s book : “ Upon this place stood a cross , and a little below a sepulchre . Then he said ‘ He hath given me rest by his sorrow , and life by his death .’” An English horn solo rises over softly sustained chords — as it does during these same words in his opera — before the strings sing their own poignant melody . In the final moments , a single violin and solo horn reiterate the themes in a meditative stillness .
The Finale is structured as a passacaglia — variations built on a repeating bass line — that is now clearly in the key of D major . Any sense of ambiguity is gone and the mood is joyous . Near the end , the strings calmly state a different “ Alleluia ” refrain from another hymn by Vaughn Williams , “ All Creatures of Our God and King .” Thus begins a restful conclusion of profound beauty and peace .
Instrumentation Two flutes , two oboes , english horn , two clarinets , two bassoons , two horns , two trumpets , three trombones , timpani .
FOCUS on what you enjoy .
Now ’ s your time to enjoy it all . In our diverse and inviting Life Plan community , surround yourself with people you ’ ll like and social opportunities you ’ ll love . Settle into a home amongst nature , supported by a continuum of care for every age and ability . At Broadmead , you ’ ll be able to focus on a lifestyle you truly enjoy !
PEABODY
Request your free Broadmead Planning Kit ! information @ broadmead . org
2023 – 24 CONCERT SEASON
Broadmead . org
Peabody ’ s FREE in-person and online performance season this fall spans from classical to contemporary , from jazz to dance .
Find your favorites at peabody . jhu . edu / events .
SEP-OCT 2023 / OVERTURE 29